The Washington Capitals appear ready to begin the 2026-27 season with the same goaltending tandem from the past two campaigns: Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren.
Why is Charlie Lindgren staying in Washington despite trade rumors?
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman revealed during the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast that, despite Lindgren garnering some trade speculation around the NHL, the Capitals seem set to keep the veteran backstop. Lindgren, 32, made 21 appearances for the Caps this past year, serving as Thompson’s backup.
Friedman stated that the Capitals believe they have a “good team” with the Lindgren and Thompson combination. While Lindgren’s name has circulated in NHL trade discussions, the front office appears committed to the current setup.
Lindgren, 32, is under a three-year, $9 million contract extension signed in March 2025. This agreement carries a $3 million annual cap hit through the 2027-28 season.
The decision to keep Lindgren follows a period of inconsistent play. After an impressive 2023-24 season, Lindgren has struggled to replicate that form over the past two seasons. In 60 games since the beginning of the 2024-25 campaign, he is 29-22-6 with a 3.01 goals-against average, a .890 save percentage, and two shutouts. According to MoneyPuck, he has also allowed 6.3 more goals than expected in those games.
How does Clay Stevenson fit into the Capitals’ goaltending depth?
With Logan Thompson emerging as one of the NHL’s top goalies, the Capitals face a crowded depth chart. Clay Stevenson, 27, has emerged as a significant internal option. Stevenson recorded a 3-1-0 record with a 2.00 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage during his four appearances for the Capitals last season.
While Stevenson has been a standout performer for the Hershey Bears, his path to the NHL involves roster risks. Because he is currently signed through next year, the Capitals may have to risk placing him on waivers if they attempt to send him to the AHL in the fall. Reports from last season indicated that other NHL teams have expressed interest in claiming Stevenson.
What is the status of the Capitals’ goaltending prospects?
The Capitals’ goaltending pool has undergone recent changes. The organization did not tender a qualifying offer to goalie Garin Bjorklund on Monday, making him an unrestricted free agent. Bjorklund was the de facto number-four goaltender in the organization last season, serving as Stevenson’s backup at the NHL level when Thompson and Lindgren were unavailable at the same time.
Currently, the Capitals hold NHL contracts for four goaltenders: Thompson, Lindgren, Stevenson, and Mitch Gibson. The team is also looking toward future development with recent draft picks Antoine Keller and Nicholas Kempf.
Kempf is expected to return to the NCAA at Notre Dame for the 2026-27 campaign. Meanwhile, Keller, who played four games for the ECHL’s South Carolina Stingrays before heading back to Europe last season, could get another shot in North America.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Washington Capitals’ primary goaltenders?
Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren are expected to remain the primary tandem for the upcoming seasons.
Is Charlie Lindgren being traded?
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the Capitals do not intend to trade Lindgren despite recent rumors.
What is Clay Stevenson’s recent NHL performance?
In four games last season, Stevenson posted a 2.00 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage.
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